The Best Games For PlayStation 3
With powerful hardware and a massive library of amazing games, the PlayStation 3 has earned its place in video game history as one of the greatest consoles of all time. But with so many titles to choose from, it can be hard to find which games are worth your time and money. That's why we decided to whittle down the options to this list of the best PS3 games. Read on to discover the cream of the crop.
What to Look For
In our search for the best PS3 games, we used four main questions to guide us: Is the gameplay engaging and long-lasting? Is it well-designed, with impressive graphics and smooth controls? Is it a multiplayer or a single-player game? Is the price fair? Our favorite overall is The Last of Us, a game now widely considered a masterpiece in interactive storytelling. But if the “M for Mature” rating is inappropriate for your kids, we strongly recommend Little Big Planet 2 for its wide variety of game modes and family-friendly multiplayer support. And if that still doesn’t suit you, read on for our in-depth reviews.
The Last of Us
A true triumph
The Last of Us is truly a revolutionary game. As you navigate through a post-apocalyptic world with a young girl named Ellie under your protection, an incredibly profound story of survival and human nature is revealed. It’s certainly not for the faint of heart, as there are violent sequences in which you must make use of the firearms and weapons that you collect along the way. Indeed, the action is at times tense and at other times brutal. But if you want to enjoy one of the most carefully crafted video games of all time, you should definitely check out The Last of Us.
Pros:
- Extremely engaging and fun
- The nuanced plotline delivers an unforgettable ending
- Graphics that make the most of the PS3’s hardware
Cons:
- Because the maps are so big, load times are often more than a minute
Fallout 3 – Game of the Year Edition
Post-apocalyptic immersion
If you haven’t yet played the Fallout series, you’re in for a treat. With half a dozen Fallout games to date, we think that Fallout 3 is the very best game of all. With open-world elements, an innovative leveling system, and unique combat, this game is an experience like no other. The biggest draw, however, is the immersive and well-crafted virtual environment, which sucks you into a darkly humorous and cynical world. Best of all, this edition comes with several DLC packs ready to go.
Pros:
- Countless hours of content
- Non-linear play style
- Unique combat system
- Graphics still hold up
Cons:
- The intensive hardware demands can lead to some lag and low frame rates
Little Big Planet 2
Family friendly fun
It can be hard to find appropriate games for youngsters that aren’t a total bore. But Little Big Planet 2 is the exception to the norm. This game is jam-packed with kid-friendly content, including a lengthy story mode and several epic multiplayer modes. Better yet, you can download any of the hundreds of thousands of player-created content. And although it’s a big hit with kids, we adults love hopping onto the multiplayer games with our younger family members to compete in unforgettable battles.
Pros:
- Huge amount of content
- Gorgeous graphics
- Kids love the opportunities for customization
- Online multiplayer
Cons:
- For those who have played the original, this sequel’s story mode will likely feel very familiar
Red Dead Redemption – Game of The Year Edition
Progress as you please
If you’re a fan of open-world games like Grand Theft Auto or Skyrim, this wild-west title is a must-try. Red Dead Redemption introduces an expansive world with triumphs and tragedies. It’s easy to get wrapped up in any one of the many side quests, as each one leads you down new paths. Of course, there’s a main questline, but it’s worth exploring everything this gun-crazy game has to offer.
Pros:
- Immersive and realistic
- Easy to quickly learn the controls
- Excellent balance of difficulty and challenges
- Incredibly detailed environments with vibrant weather, flora, and fauna
Cons:
- It’s very bloody, so it’s not for everyone
Batman: Arkham City – Game of The Year Edition
Answer the call
We’ve all watched Batman take on the bad guys, and now it’s time to don the suit yourself. Batman: Arkham City is a major improvement over its predecessor, with engaging content that requires the full use of your arsenal of bat-themed gadgets. The fighting mechanics are satisfying, the city is animated beautifully, and the storylines are unique and fun. As far as first game, single-player experiences go, this one is a tour de force.
Pros:
- Variety of abilities and gadgets
- Well-written and engaging storyline
- This edition includes the DLC “Harley Quinn’s Revenge”
- Excellent fighting mechanics that are easy to learn
Cons:
- Quick take-downs of enemies require combos, so button-mashers will have to adapt
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I play games from other consoles on the PlayStation 3?
Many of the games from the original PlayStation and the PlayStation 2 can be played on the PlayStation 3. Sadly, newer Sony consoles starting with the PS4 aren’t backward-compatible with PS3 games.
Does the PlayStation 3 still hold up?
Even though the PlayStation 3 is getting up there in years, it’s still an excellent system. With a massive library of fun titles and hardware that still looks good on HD screens, among other games, we think the PS3 is a console that will remain worth plugging in for a long time.
About the Author
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With the constantly shifting landscape in the world of technology, GameRevolution seeks to provide gamers and tech-enthusiasts with the information they need to select the right products for their needs. Since 1996, our experts have used their knowledge on all the latest gadgets – everything from headphones to standing desks – to help millions of people navigate specs and answer common questions.